In anticipation of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals clash between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire, the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation has initiated a widespread mobilisation effort nationwide.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, announced that the National Orientation Agency (NOA) will be distributing thousands of hand-held and outdoor flags at viewing centres nationwide to bolster patriotic fervour among Nigerians.
“The flag is one of Nigeria’s most important national symbols, and as part of our national reorientation vision, we intend to bring it back into prominence in every facet of our national life. Today is a perfect opportunity to demonstrate this,” Idris said.
Press Release:@NOA_Nigeria to Mobilise Nigerians in Support of Super Eagles – Minister of Information and National Orientation
Ahead of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Elephants of Ivory Coast, on Sunday, at the Alassane… pic.twitter.com/xrJxHE4kAz
— Fed Min of Info & Nat’l Orien (@FMINONigeria) February 11, 2024
Idris also urged Nigerians living in Côte d’Ivoire to flock to the stadium to cheer for the Super Eagles, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is encouraged by the team’s performance.
“The government is confident the Super Eagles will lift the AFCON trophy this year, making it the fourth in our kitty, and all necessary support has been provided to encourage the team to excel,” he said.
Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa, has a passionate fan base for football, the most popular sport. The Super Eagles have won the AFCON three times: in 1980, 1994 and 2013. They reached the final this year after defeating South Africa in a penalty shootout in the semi-final on Wednesday.
Côte d’Ivoire, on the other hand, has won the AFCON twice, in 1992 and 2015. They beat DR Congo 1-0 in the semi-final on Wednesday.
The AFCON final will kick off at 9 p.m. local time on Sunday.
